Watching the Prime Minister give his budget speech in Parliament on Wednesday evening was almost beyond belief.

I must be living in a different country as here, according to the PM, everything is rosy with a growing economy, comfortable living and a strong and healthy workforce.

The Prime Minister seemed more intent on ridiculing the Malta Labour Party rather than giving a clear indication of what the future holds for us and the country.

PM Gonzi’s performance was more suited to a stage performance – maybe that was what it was. He criticised Labour on pension plans. Did the budget have any pension reforms? Part-time workers are on the increase, said the PM. But this is only because it is cheaper to employ part-timers than full-time workers.

No new taxes in his Budget, proclaimed the PM. Excuse me but what was the 55 per cent surcharge on electricity? This is a government long past its sell-by date.

When the next general election results are in, I wonder if Dr Gonzi will be in such a cheerful mood? At least he will only have a short walk across the floor.

Bernard Lynch

Paola